THE family of a Lower Walton couple, who have been celebrating their blue sapphire wedding anniversary, say they are the best of friends and an inspiration to the whole family.

James and Jean Kidd, of St John Avenue, marked 65 years of marriage last Thursday with a family party at their daughter Janet’s house.

The pair married at the Parish Church after meeting at Burtonwood Airbase where James, aged 88, worked in bomber command and Jean, aged 84, was on switchboard.

James is now a retired police officer at Arpley Street police station and Jean was a supervisor on the switchboard at Greenalls.

They celebrated their special day with their two children Janet, and her husband Ken, and James, and his wife Diane, three grandchildren and five great grandchildren.

Granddaughter Lindsay Laff revealed the secret to their marriage’s success.

She added: “They are best of friends and soulmates, talk through any problems no matter how big or small and have to have alot of patience.

“They are an absolute credit and inspiration to the whole family.”